When MORS held its first Homeland Security (HLS) Mini-Symposium in March of this year, HLS interest was still developing. During the mini-symposium, the papers and discussions were very informative, yet the "fire and brimstone" effects of September 11th were unheard of. Now the words of Thomas Jefferson ring true: " It is our duty still to endeavor to avoid war; but if it shall actually take place, no matter by whom brought on, we must defend ourselves. If our house be on fire . . . we must try to extinguish it."

Suddenly the country realizes the vulnerability of the US homeland. The HLS vision and effort are now a main concern of our populace and at all levels of government. About 40 agencies will need to work together toward a common goal. Proponents who sought more emphasis on asymmetric warfare and HLS were included in the 2001 Quadrennial Defense Review: "Mr Rumsfeld said the QDR 'fortuitously ... at least addressed the problems of homeland defense and the problems of asymmetrical threats rather well.'"1 The supporting role that the military will play in the Office of Homeland Security is becoming a high priority mission.

The HLS office and supporting agencies will need analytical support for decision makers in preparation, training, equipping and integrating personnel, efforts and resources.

If you are thinking about volunteering to work in Homeland Security, you are not alone:

    …need to get a lot smarter about this HLS missioning (sic) in order to provide proper guidance to the staff when we develop OPORD/OPLAN.

    I am working with the Navy staff (N70 CP) on homeland security issues. I am trying to track down any briefs, findings, articles, etc that came from this area.

    How do I apply?

    I used to manage counter-terrorism training and presently own a chemical and biological decontamination company. I would like to become involved in homeland security. Is there someone you might recommend I contact?

    Can you tell me how one would go about applying for a position in the Homeland Security field? Would the FBI be a start? Thank you for any information you can send me. I live in San Diego, Ca.

    I would like to offer my expertise in moving individuals to collective action through communication campaigns. Could you please supply an address for the new Office of Homeland Security announced by President Bush last night?

"While the attacks were horrible, [Sergeant Major of the Army] Tilley said he has noticed increased patriotism among all Americans, not just the military. He recounted how the day after the attacks a reserve soldier was getting gas for his car and when he went to pay, the attendant said it was on him as the soldier was helping to defend the country. He also said that he has been getting dozens of phone calls from retirees asking if they can come back to help without pay and asking how else they can help."

Although MORS will not pay for your gas to get to the 70th Military Operations Research Society Symposium at Fort Leavenworth in June 2002, we think that you may want to volunteer your time to this area. For the HLS Special Session, invited panel speakers will present their perspectives on Homeland Security and how the MORS community can contribute. Thank you in advance for highlighting this session on your 70th MORSS schedule. United we stand!

1. "Defense Review To Feel Impact Of Terror Attacks", Rowan Scarborough, The Washington Times, September 27, 2001, p.15.
2. Author's HLS-related email from concerned and interested citizens across the United States from Hawaii, California, Iowa, New York and Washington, DC.
3. "Tilley tells soldiers to know the basics", Joe Burlas, http://www.dtic.mil/armylink/news/Sep2001/a20010925tilley2.html